The story, reflecting Andersen's own travels in Italy in 1833, reveals much about his own life and aspirations as experienced by Antonio, the novel's principal character.

In September 1833, with financial support from Danish well-wishers, Andersen embarked on a cultural trip to Italy.

Deeply impressed with everything he experienced and influenced by Madame de Staël's Corinne ou l'Italie, he began writing his travel tale, The Improvisatore.

[2] In this fictionalized autobiography, the hero Antonio does not arrive as a tourist but grows up in Italy, thus able to show not just the sunny side of life but also some of its shadows.

[3] Like Andersen himself, Antonio comes from a poor background but fights his way through various crises and amorous relationships until he is finally successful.